Fish Oil Precautions
There have been plenty of buzz about the benefits of fish oil. Studies have shown multiple health benefits of fish oil. However, there are actually some bad effects of fish oil, but some of them are preventable. Some fish oils are sold in liquid or in capsules. For this reason, we should avoid exposing them to open air, direct sunlight and heat. Fish oil can get oxidized, when exposed to air for too long.
Oil will start to lose its nutritional values, if they get bad. Other than that, it is suspected that bad fish oil can actually contribute to the development of cancerous cells and other diseases.
There are some mild side effects of fish oil consumption, such as fishy burps, fishy aftertaste and diarrhea. A few have reported nose bleeding after taking fish oil for a period of time. We should also be conscious about the concentrated presence of vitamin A, E and D in fish oil. Excessive intake of these vitamins can actually lead to poisoning. For this reason, it is important to consult the family doctor or health care professional about fish oil intake. Excessive intake of fish oil can actually cause multiple serious ailments.
Other than nose bleeding, fish oil may also cause gastrointestinal bleeding. This is shown by blood vomit and red marks on our stool. We should consult the family doctor immediately about this. Other more serious bleeding-related consequences are bleeding in the brain and hemorrhagic stroke.
There are other symptoms as well, such as painful headaches, numbness in the limb, speech changes and vision impairment. In fact, these symptoms are often thought as signs of stroke. People with diabetes should consult with the doctor to know whether supplements with fish oil are safe.
In some people, fish oil supplements can actually cause high blood sugar or hyperglycaemia. We should be conscious and watchful of any allergic reactions. Common symptoms of fish oil allergy are difficulty in breathing, wheezing, swelling, itching and rashes. This could happen on people who just consume fish oil.
In general, it is possible to lessen some of the side effects by taking fish oil with our meal. This will allow us to digest fish oil more easily and get rid of the unpleasant aftertaste. However, some people may still experience of stomach pain and abdominal disorder. To solve this, it is possible to freeze the fish oil capsule and then swallow it like a solid tablet. Consuming fish oil in its frozen form should help us to lessen many side effects.
In general, too much of a good thing can still lead to bad things. For male adults, the recommended daily intake of fish oil is 1600mg and 1100mg for women. People with some diseases may consume slightly more than the recommended amount, but it is necessary to consult the family doctor about this.
Fish oil is very beneficial supplement and it is highly advisable for many people. These side effects actually occur on small number of people and they are mostly preventable.
Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions
Last Updated on Aug 10, 2018
General Information on Fish Oil Triglycerides
Generic Name : Fish Oil Triglycerides
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Trade Names/Brand Names of Fish Oil Triglycerides Omegaven
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Why is Fish Oil Triglycerides Prescribed? (Indications)
It is a mixture of highly refined
Fish oil triglycerides are used to provide parenteral nutrition in patients who suffer from Parenteral Nutrition Associated Cholestasis (PNAC). Fish oil triglycerides are used for providing total parenteral nutrition delivering energy and fatty acids directly into the bloodstream in patients who cannot take food or other supplements by mouth for medical reasons.It is a mixture of highly refined fish oil containing omega-3 fatty acids such as eicosapentenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexenoic acid (DHA) with alpha-tocopherol, a form of vitamin E known for its antioxidant property.Fish oil triglycerides are used to provide parenteral nutrition in patients who suffer from Parenteral Nutrition Associated Cholestasis (PNAC).
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Latest prescription information about Fish Oil Triglycerides. Learn its indications, dosage, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its storage instructions . Also listed are the Indian trade name(s) of the drug and its price list.
When should Fish Oil Triglycerides not be taken? (Contraindications)
Allergic to fish oil or egg protein
High levels of fat (cholesterol and triglycerides) in the blood
Bleeding disorders
Certain conditions like diabetes,
Fish oil triglycerides should not be used for preventing PNAC.
Fish oil triglycerides should not be given to premature infants, newborns, infants, children below 11 years, and patients with liver or kidney dysfunction as their safety and effectiveness have not been studied in these groups. Fish oil triglycerides should not be used in patients with - Allergic to fish oil or egg protein High levels of fat (cholesterol and triglycerides) in the blood Certain conditions like diabetes, stroke , occurrence of clots or fat deposits in blood vessels, and a sudden drop in blood flow or shock.Fish oil triglycerides should not be used for preventing PNAC.Fish oil triglycerides should not be given to premature infants, newborns, infants, children below 11 years, and patients with liver or kidney dysfunction as their safety and effectiveness have not been studied in these groups.
What is the dosage of Fish Oil Triglycerides?
The recommended daily dose of fish oil triglycerides in pediatric patients is 1g/kg body weight.
The dose of fish oil triglycerides infusion can be reduced to 0.5g to 0.75g/kg body weight if the fat levels (triglycerides) are high and can be increased to a maximum 1g/kg body weight if the levels (triglycerides) are normal.
The initial rate of infusion given within half an hour should be 0.05mL/min and can be increased to 1.5 mL/kg body weight/ in an hour if the patient is able to tolerate fish oil triglycerides without any side effects.
The treatment with fish oil triglycerides can be stopped temporarily if any severe side effects or increased levels of triglycerides are seen in the blood.
Choosing the correct dose of fish oil triglycerides depends on the individual patients energy requirements, age, body weight, tolerance level, lab values of triglycerides level, co-administration of dextrose, amino acids, and vitamin E.
How should Fish Oil Triglycerides be taken?
Fish oil triglycerides are available as an injectable emulsion which should be given directly into the central or peripheral vein either alone or mixed with another parenteral nutrition mixture.
The parenteral nutrition should be mixed in the parenteral container only in aseptic conditions to avoid microbial contamination.
Mixing of fish oil triglycerides injection with other intravenous solutions should be carefully done to avoid chemical reactions among the infusion solutions.
The dose of dextrose and amino acids can be modified based on the contents of the fish oil triglycerides solution.
Make sure that the parenteral mixture is free from precipitate before administration. If separation of the mixture or yellowish coloration of the solution occurs, discard the solution immediately.
Dextrose and amino acid solution can be simultaneously added to the parenteral nutrition container followed by the fish oil triglycerides solution. The mixture can be gently shaken to make the solution uniform.
Once the solutions are mixed, it should be given to the patient as soon as possible by using a Y-connector.
If the mixture cannot be administered immediately, it should be stored in a refrigerator at a temperature between 2°C and 8°C for up to 24 hours or up to a maximum of 6 hours at room temperature (below 25°C).
The infusion should be given within 24 hours from the time it is removed from its respective storage.
What are the warnings and precautions for Fish Oil Triglycerides? Patients should be monitored for symptoms and signs of early infection such as fever or chills as lipid emulsions such as fish oil triglycerides can cause microbial growth.
To avoid such complications, it is necessary to mix the fish oil triglycerides contents only in a sterile condition. Also, checking lab values to know the infection status is advised.
The infusion site should frequently be checked for redness, swelling or fluid discharge.
Administration of fish oil triglycerides may lead to the rise of refeeding syndrome or fat overload syndrome as it may result in sudden deterioration of patients health. Therefore, patients should be carefully monitored for liver function, blood abnormalities, and changes in electrolyte levels, thiamine deficiency, and fluid accumulation.
The levels of triglycerides should be measured at regular intervals during the treatment with fish oil triglycerides infusion. If the levels are high, treatment with fish oil triglycerides can be stopped temporarily and can be started again according to subsequently obtained lab values.
Aluminum accumulation can occur which may cause brain and bone toxicity in patients who receive fish oil triglycerides infusion for long-term particularly in patients with kidney dysfunction.
Monitor patients for the symptoms and signs of fluid accumulation around the lungs or heart during the treatment with fish oil triglycerides infusion.
What are the side effects of Fish Oil Triglycerides?
Gastrointestinal: Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, pain in the stomach
Nervous system: Fever, chills, headache, abnormal weakness
Respiratory: Breathing difficulty, chest pain
Lab abnormalities: Alteration in the levels of liver parameters, triglycerides, blood glucose, hemoglobin, platelets, bleeding time, prothrombin time
Others: Back pain, bone pain, bluish coloration of the skin or Nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, pain in the stomachFever, chills, headache, abnormal weaknessBreathing difficulty, chest painAlteration in the levels of liver parameters, triglycerides, blood glucose, hemoglobin, platelets, bleeding time, prothrombin timeBack pain, bone pain, bluish coloration of the skin or cyanosis , prolonged erection of the penis, infusion site reactions (swelling, redness), changes in blood pressure
What are the other precautions for Fish Oil Triglycerides?
Patients should be routinely monitored for fat content in blood, liver and kidney function, electrolyte levels, fatty acid levels along with complete blood count during the treatment with fish oil triglycerides infusion.
Lipid levels may interfere with other lab tests and blood for any diagnostic purpose should be withdrawn only 6 hours after stopping the infusion as lipid levels will take time to get cleared completely from the bloodstream.
What are the Drug Interactions of Fish Oil Triglycerides?
Patients may experience bleeding episodes or prolonged bleeding time when fish oil triglycerides infusion is given to patients taking blood thinners. So caution is required in such cases.
The doctor should be informed about any medications such as prescription or non-prescription drugs taken by the patient to avoid dangerous side effects caused by the drugs.
What are the storage conditions for Fish Oil Triglycerides?
Store the emulsion at room temperature between 15°C and 25°C.
Do not keep in a freezer.
Store the mixture of fish oil triglycerides and other parenteral solutions at a cold storage in a refrigerator between 2°C, and 8°C and use within 24 hours.
Last Updated : 8/10/2018
What Are the Side Effects of Too Much Fish Oil?
The human body is amazing. But, it needs continual support to stay healthy. One nutrient that can lend to that support is omega-3 fatty acids. These acids are needed by the body to perform necessary functions such as muscle activity and cell growth, but your body cannot produce this fatty acid on its own.
Fortunately, omega-3s are readily available in most types of fish as well as in some nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils. Plus, there are a growing number of supplements available to support your body’s needs when you are unable to get enough omega-3s from natural sources.
Many people use fish oil to get the omega-3s that they need. And while there are a number of benefits to taking fish oil, it also can produce some mild—and sometimes embarrassing—side effects. Here's what you need to know about the benefits of fish oil, its possible side effects, and how to take it safely.
What You Need to Know About Fish Oil
Fish oil, which typically contains omega-3 fatty acids, is one of the most widely-used supplements in the United States. In fact, according to the 2012 National Health Interview Survey, nearly 8% of adults (18.8 million) and 1% of children ages 4 to 17 (664,000) had taken a fish oil supplement in the previous 30 days.
Most people who take fish oil are doing so because of the numerous health benefits that proponents of fish oil claim the supplement offers. However, the effectiveness, as well as benefits of fish oil, are still being studied.
That said, taking fish oil could help improve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and high doses of omega-3s may reduce triglyceride levels. The supplement also has been said to impact mood disorders, prevent heart disease, and slow the progression of eye diseases.
But, for most of these conditions for which omega-3 supplements have been studied, the results are still inconclusive, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.
It is also important to note that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has prohibited the labels of dietary supplements from including daily intake recommendations higher than 2g. It also has cautioned against consuming more than 3g per day.
If you are considering taking fish oil, speak to a healthcare provider first to determine if this supplement is right for you. You also should be aware of the potential side effects and be mindful of how much you are taking.
Possible Side Effects of Taking Fish Oil
Although fish oil has been touted as having a number of benefits, it also can cause a few side effects. Most of these side effects are mild—and possibly even embarrassing—but usually not harmful. Here are some common side effects of taking fish oil supplements.
Unpleasant Taste
Fish oil is, after all, from fish. If you’re not a fan of the smell or taste of seafood, you may find a liquid fish oil supplement to be unappetizing. To avoid this side effect, you can take supplements in capsule or pill form, but some people even report a fishy aftertaste from these forms as well.
Bad Breath
Similar to the taste, some people claim that fish oil leaves a lasting impact on the odor of their breath, which some people find embarrassing. Freezing capsules can help because it takes longer to break down in the stomach. Taking it with a meal instead of alone also can minimize this possible side effect.
Smelly Sweat
In the same vein as the previous two side effects, people have said that consuming fish oil can give their sweat a noticeable scent. If you work out a lot or tend to perspire easily, you may find this side effect annoying. You can try changing the timing of when you take your fish oil supplement so that it is less noticeable during a workout or reduce the amount you're taking to see if that helps.
Headache
Some people have reported headaches as a side effect of taking fish oil, but studies have also shown that omega-3s can be a headache reliever. In fact, taking a fish oil supplement is often a recommendation for people who suffer from chronic migraines. If you experience headaches while taking fish oil, you may want to tell a healthcare provider.
Heartburn
Due to its fat content, fish oil can trigger heartburn, particularly if you are already prone to acid reflux. Taking fish oil with meals also helps to mitigate the risk of heartburn. Meanwhile, those who have gastroesophageal reflux disease should talk to a healthcare professional before starting a fish oil supplement regimen.
Nausea and Gastrointestinal Discomfort
As a concentrated form of fat, fish oil can disrupt your digestive tract, especially if taken on an empty stomach. General gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea, is a commonly reported side effect of taking fish oil. Try taking the supplement with food or reducing how often or how much you take to see if that provides some relief.
Diarrhea
One review found that the most common side effect of fish oil consumption is diarrhea. Taking it with meals will help to curb this side effect. But, if it continues, lowering your dosage might be a good idea. If you continue to be plagued with diarrhea, talk to a healthcare provider for suggestions, especially if they have recommended the supplements.
Safety and Precautions
One of the biggest cautions against consuming too much fish oil is that it is a natural anticoagulant, which means it prevents blood from clotting. This characteristic can increase the risk of bleeding, and cause your blood to thin.
For this reason, you should be mindful of how much fish oil you are taking as well as consider what other medications you are taking alongside it. Talk to a healthcare provider before taking fish oil to determine if it is right for you. You want to be sure that the fish oil you are consuming does not interfere with your other medications and supplements.
Taking fish oil also can cause you to develop a skin rash. Anyone with an allergy or general sensitivity to fish or shellfish should talk to a healthcare professional before taking this supplement. Even in pill form, fish oil could still trigger an allergic response.
Talk to a Healthcare Professional If you have a history of bleeding issues or are on medications that may have similar side effects, like blood thinners, talk to a healthcare provider before adding fish oil to your vitamin and supplement regimen. You also should contact a doctor if you develop a rash or any unusual symptoms while taking fish oil. A healthcare provider can help you determine if taking fish oil is right for you.
A Word From Verywell
If you have added a fish oil supplement to your regimen, you may find that you are experiencing some mild—yet annoying—side effects like fishy-smelling breath and sweat. If these side effects are bothersome you can try reducing the amount you consume or try taking them with meals. Sometimes even taking them at different times a day can be helpful.
Also, be sure to talk to a healthcare provider if your side effects are bothersome or get worse. They can help you determine if taking fish oil is right for you.
